Speaking at the Royal Humane Society’s London headquarters as he announced the awards, secretary Andrew Chapman said: "It was a tragic case but everyone who attended did their level best to save the woman and get her breathing again.

"They succeeded in restoring her pulse and she was alive when she reached hospital. Her family were with her when she died and thanks to the efforts of the police and Mr Carter they had that last chance to be with her while she was still alive.

"Everyone involved did all they could – no-one could have done more - and they all richly deserve the awards they are to receive."

No date has yet been fixed for presentation of the awards which have been made following a recommendation from Humberside Police but it is expected to take place early next year.